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Group Says Poverty, Disunity Responsible for Surge in Terrorism
Group Says Poverty, Disunity Responsible for Surge in Terrorism
By: Michael Mike
The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has identified the surge in terrorism in Nigeria as a result of disunity among communities across the country and poverty among majority of citizens.
The group in a press statement signed by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak on Tuesday, said the persistent and growing threat of terrorism in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, is evident that terrorist groups, both local and international—including Boko Haram, ISWAP, Al-Qaeda affiliates, and more recently, the Lakurawa terrorist group—have exploited the longstanding divisions within our communities to carry out their heinous attacks.
Abrak said: “Terrorism thrives where there is disunity and poverty. In Nigeria, sectarian and political fault lines—especially religious divisions between Christians and Muslims—have allowed these criminals to operate with impunity. Rather than uniting to confront a common enemy, communities often fall into the trap of mutual suspicion and blame. This division has enabled terrorists to continue their violence across religious and political boundaries.”
He noted that: “We must ask ourselves: why do we continue to witness deadly attacks in Christian-dominated areas such as Plateau, Benue, and in the recent tragedy in Gombe, where a truck rammed into an Easter mass rally? Similarly, why are Muslim-majority states like Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto under constant siege? The answer is simple: terrorism knows no religion, region, or tribe. Nigeria as a whole is being targeted, and unless we unite, we risk losing everything, just as happened in countries like Afghanistan and Yemen.”
He however said: “The way forward is not through division, but unity—across religious, ethnic, and political lines. This unity must be backed by bold, people-centered policies that empower communities to protect themselves and deny terrorists the environment they exploit.
“One such policy is the revitalization of the Forest Guard, as proposed in President Bola Tinubu’s campaign manifesto. NCYP has long advocated for this initiative. Properly implemented, it would involve recruiting local community members—those who know the terrain intimately—to safeguard their forests. This would not only improve security but also create jobs and provide a steady income, reducing the appeal of terrorist recruitment.
“In tandem, we strongly support the full implementation of Local Government Financial Autonomy, as ordered by the Supreme Court. When funds are directly allocated to local governments, communities can witness real development at the grassroots. Economic empowerment at this level builds resilience against extremist influence.”
Abrak decried that: “Unfortunately, we continue to see political maneuvering and sabotage when it comes to implementing these people-oriented policies. For example, the debate over state police versus the Forest Guard should not be an either-or argument. If state police are formed, will they truly focus on reclaiming forests overrun by terrorists? And if State Police is viable, why hasn’t this government moved swiftly to implement it?
“Similarly, why have Local Government Councils not opened accounts with the Central Bank to allow FAAC funds to be deposited directly, as constitutionally mandated? These are serious questions our leaders must answer if they are truly committed to ending the insurgency that is devastating rural Nigeria.”
“We urge all Nigerians, especially those in rural communities, to raise their voices and demand full implementation of these critical policies. The political class has demonstrated that when the will exists, necessary legal reforms can be swiftly enacted—as seen when the National Assembly invoked the Doctrine of Necessity to resolve a constitutional crisis after President Yar’Adua’s death,” he said.
He advises that: “Let us show the same urgency in enacting laws and reforms that will empower our people, defend our communities, and defeat terrorism.
“We, the Northern Christian Youth Professionals, stand ready to partner with all patriotic Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnicity, in the fight for a safer, united, and prosperous Nigeria.”
Group Says Poverty, Disunity Responsible for Surge in Terrorism
Three vigilantes killed, village head abducted in Kebbi attack
By: Zagazola Makama
Three vigilante members have been killed and a village head abducted following a suspected terrorist attack on Yantala village in Bagudu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Security sources said the incident occurred on April 15, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m., when armed men stormed the community and opened fire sporadically on residents.
The attackers, believed to be members of a terrorist group locally referred to as “Mamudawa Boko Haram,” reportedly killed three vigilantes identified as Usman Riga of Sabon Gari village, Bande of the same address, and Bala Dan Chako of Yantala village.
They were also said to have abducted the village head of Yantala, Garba Ahmadu (85), alongside another resident, Bala Mazuga.
During the assault, one motorcycle was set ablaze before the attackers fled into nearby bush paths.
Local sources said the assailants operated with superior firepower, forcing residents to flee for safety.
Efforts are reportedly ongoing to rescue the abducted victims and track down those responsible for the attack, while tension remains high in the affected community.
Three vigilantes killed, village head abducted in Kebbi attack
Army holds Senior Command and Leadership Seminar in Port Harcourt
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army has held its First Senior Command and Leadership Seminar for 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, aimed at strengthening operational leadership in complex security environments.
Sources said the seminar took place on April 14 at the Port Harcourt Barracks and had in attendance senior officers from various formations.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. W. Shaibu, was represented by the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Maj.-Gen. P.P. Malla, who was received by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Maj.-Gen. E.E. Emekah.
According to the source, the seminar featured a lecture titled “Enhancing Operational Level Command and Leadership in a Complex Operational Environment,” delivered by retired Maj.-Gen. I.S. Ali.
The lecture session also had contributions from retired Air Vice Marshal I.G. Lubo and retired Maj.-Gen. S.O. Olabanji as discussants.
The event, which brought together serving and retired senior military officers, was described as hitch-free.
Military authorities said the seminar is part of ongoing efforts to improve command efficiency, decision-making, and inter-agency coordination in contemporary security operations.
Army holds Senior Command and Leadership Seminar in Port Harcourt
LATE BRIGADIER GENERAL BRAIMO, OTHER FALLEN HEROES LAID TO REST WITH MILITARY HONOURS
By: Our Reporter
In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony, the nation on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, laid to rest Late Brigadier General Omo Braimo, Captain Ismail, and other gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
The burial, held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State, was marked by deep sorrow, honour and reflection.
Amidst grieving families and fellow comrades, the fallen heroes were accorded full military honours in recognition of their selfless service and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation.
Their sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the heavy price paid daily by members of the Armed Forces to safeguard the peace, unity and security of Nigeria.
In attendance were the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and other senior military officers, all gathered to honour the courage and dedication of the departed.In their tributes, the Governor, the Minister of Defence, the CDS, and the COAS described the fallen soldiers as true patriots who stood firm in the face of danger and made the ultimate sacrifice so that others might live in safety.
They noted that their bravery and sense of duty will continue to inspire generations and remain etched in the nation’s history.With heavy hearts, prayers were offered for the peaceful repose of their souls, while citations detailing their service and sacrifice were read before their next of kin.
The grief of their families underscored the human cost of the nation’s security efforts, even as their courage remains a source of pride and honour.
As the nation mourns these heroes, it is reminded that the freedom and stability enjoyed today come at a profound cost, paid by brave men who placed duty above self and gave everything in service to their fatherland.
LATE BRIGADIER GENERAL BRAIMO, OTHER FALLEN HEROES LAID TO REST WITH MILITARY HONOURS
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